Why Handcrafted Art Decor Matters

Firefly Kiln Farm

At Donjenna, we cross the globe to create partnerships with previously undiscovered artisans. Our pride comes from offering exquisitely made home decor with uniquely modern and contemporary sensibilities.

Perhaps you’re wondering why we take bespoke, hand crafted art decor so seriously. The reasons might surprise you.

fortunata-ceramics

The Case Against Mass Production

Furniture and other decor items made in a factory assembly line often contain defects, or are made with cheaper materials to cut costs. The effect is a product of poor quality that will not stand the test of time.

Some things don’t turn out exactly right when the process is automated. A dovetail joint, for example, is a very old design in woodworking known to be unparalleled in strength. It is most often cut by hand. Artisans use an intuitive sense in making an object, which can’t be replicated by a machine.

Here’s something most people may not know: Even in large scale factory operations, like making candy bars, some key parts of the process are still completed by hand. For some tasks, there’s simply no substitute for a skilled worker and the correct tools.

Get To The Source

All home furnishings were originally made by hand. Participating in the movement towards handcrafted art decor– whether as a craftsman, consumer, merchant, or designer– keeps that tradition alive. In doing so, we honor the ways artisans have made their living in the past and for the future. The traditions and techniques in ceramics, woodworking, sculpture, and other artistic endeavors would otherwise be lost if this process did not continue.

Eidos Glass Lorin Silverman

When we don’t fully know and appreciate the source of items in our home, we feel less connected to the objects we surround ourselves with. Concerning ourselves with how materials and labor are sourced is vitally important. Handcrafted furniture and art decor is produced with better labor standards: craftsmen are paid as skilled laborers, are recognized for their work, maintain a connection to their trade. Machine production, on the other hand, often exploits workers by forcing them to work in poor conditions and keep them in poverty.

The ReCycler and Gilbert
The ReCycler and Gilbert

The Importance of Choice

The beauty of handcrafted art decor is that no two pieces are alike. Furniture can be made to exact specifications. With custom made furniture, design can become a collaborative process instead of excessively controlled.

Decor offerings in big box stores, typically made on a factory floor, are based on decisions pre-made on behalf of the consumer. Furniture and decor items featured there are based on current trends, sales, and the whims of the market instead of on what the consumer might actually want or need. Artisan made decor allows you to participate more fully in designing your space and choosing which objects have a home with you.

At Donjenna, we believe you always have a choice over your surroundings. With us, you can discover the craft, story and soul in each item of bespoke, handmade home décor.  You can feel empowered in the design choices you make for your space.

Our homes, offices, and the objects they contain may serve a solely utilitarian purpose, but why not choose to make them beautiful?

Michelle Dziak Ceramics

MA Home Tour Atlanta 2015

MA! Home Tour Atlanta

Founded in 2007, MA! has evolved into Design is Human, Atlanta, a design event that promotes modern international design and culture. MA! has created a platform for cutting edge architects, interior designers and builders to showcase their work.

Nestled in old affluent neighborhood of Atlanta, a modern home has risen from the ashes. Ansley Park, dating back to 1904, was the first Atlanta suburban neighborhood designed for automobiles with its wide, winding roads rather than the grid pattern of normal streetcar suburbs of the time. Diverse in style and scale, the houses in the district represent a full range of eclectic and contemporary architecture. Continue reading

5 Reasons Why Donjenna’s Fire Pits Are A Must-Have This Fall

Third Rock Fire Pit

With fall approaching and temperatures dropping, gather around the one thing that will still keep you warm while outdoors.

We’ve seen fire pits in history books, during camping trips, and in our favorite movies and TV shows. In recent years, the use of fire pits has become more common. So, why are they a must-have for the fall?

Magnum Fire Pit

They are stylish, easy to maintain, transportable, safe, and they make the perfect gift!

Fire-pits were used thousands of years ago by historic cultures all over the world. Large holes were dug into the ground to help contain fire. It was used to provide warmth, assist with cooking, and for holding rituals or ceremonies. The pits eventually evolved to the portable sized bowls we know today. But the name never changed, and neither did its function.

 

                                                                               No Need For A Fireplace           Fleur de Lis Fire Pit

 Fire-pits are a great alternative for people who do not have fireplaces. It’s also perfect for those that would love to take their fireplace outdoors. You are still allowed the luxury of roasting marshmallows, sipping on wine, or reading a book, all with the fire blazing in the background. The only trouble is deciding whether to watch the sunset or whether to stare at the moon until morning.

Barefoot Beach Fire Pit

Stylish

There are fire pits to fit all of your style needs. They come in many shapes and sizes, and can be very simple or extremely fancy. It can be a major statement piece, like the 700 lb. handmade Africa Big Five fire pit or unique like the petite, globe styled Third Rock fire pit. No matter what your desire, there are various options that will surely satisfy you.

Durable and Transportable

Africa’s Big 5 Fire Pit

Though transportable, some fire pits are very heavy. They are made out of carbon steel, and can range anywhere from 100 pounds to ½ a ton. Do not let those numbers deter you, many fire pits can be moved. Once it has served its purpose, it can be placed back into the garage, stored in the backyard, or disassembled (depending on the style), until next time. Fire-pits are designed for years of heavy use and require no maintenance.

Longhorn Fire Pit

Great Gift

Looking for the perfect housewarming gift? Can’t seem to think of something good enough for your husband’s man cave? Need to spruce up the backyard parties? These fire pits are it. On Donjenna, fire pits start at $790… and are worth the investment. They can be coupled with a few accessories to ensure the experience is complete.

Wings of Flight Firewood Holder

Safe

Fire pits are easy to maintain, stylish, and make amazing gifts, but most importantly, they are safe. Basic fire safety rules apply to these fire-pits. They must be used in appropriate weather conditions and it’s advised that a fire pit is located at least ten feet away from structures for safety.

All fire pits on Donjenna are made from one-quarter inch thick carbon steel. The interior is coated with a high temperature resistant paint and has a 1-1/2″ rain drain in the bottom. Over time the iron oxide finish/patina on the outside will darken then become permanent.

Check out some of these stylish fire pits and don’t forget to pick up this fall’s must-have!